Picking the right window frame can feel overwhelming — each material has its own strengths, drawbacks, and price points.
But choosing the right window frame comes down to only a few key factors: your climate, budget, and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with. Vinyl is the most affordable and easiest to maintain. Fiberglass offers excellent insulation in tough weather. Wood delivers classic style, but it requires regular upkeep.
If you’re replacing old windows or building new, knowing the pros and cons of each frame type will help you make a smart, long-lasting choice.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the seven most common window frame materials — including how they perform, what they cost, and which ones are best for different types of homes.
- Price Range: $1,200+
- Glass and Hardware Warranty: 10–20 years
- Labor Warranty: 2 years
- BBB Rating: A+
- State Availability: 47 states
- Installs its own patented Fibrex framing
- Includes a transferable 20-year warranty on glass and a 10-year warranty on nonglass materials
- Holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
- Doesn’t carry aluminum, fiberglass, or wood frames
- Can have long wait times between consultation and installation, according to customer reviews
You can purchase the following window styles from Renewal by Andersen:
- Awning
- Bay/bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Picture
- Sliding/gliding
- Specialty windows with geometric shapes
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
What Are Window Frames?
Window frames support the glass panes in your windows and help seal out the elements. They also contribute to energy efficiency and affect the overall look of your home. You can choose from a variety of materials based on your budget, climate, and design preferences.
This table breaks down each window frame type. You can learn more in-depth information about each type in the following sections.
| Frame Type | Pros | Cons | Avg. Cost* | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | Affordable, durable, low-maintenance | May warp or discolor over time | $100–$4,500 | Budget-conscious homeowners |
| Wood | Classic look, excellent insulation | High maintenance, pest-prone | $150–$2,650 | Traditional style & high-end homes |
| Aluminum | Strong, low-maintenance | Poor insulation, can corrode | $200–$1,200 | Large windows, warm climates |
| Fiberglass | Strong, stable, energy-efficient | Expensive, limited styles | $200–$2,500 | Harsh climates or energy savings |
| Wood-Clad | Wood inside, vinyl or aluminum outside | Still needs some upkeep on interior wood | $250–$2,000 | Classic looks with easier care |
| Composite | Durable, insulates well, low-maintenance | Pricey, quality varies | $300–$1,200 | Wet climates, modern upgrades |
| Steel | Secure, long-lasting, fire-resistant | Expensive, heavy, can rust | $400–$5,400 | Security-minded or modern homes |
*Based on Angi contractor estimates. Actual costs may vary depending on window size, brand, and location.
Vinyl Window Frames
Made of PVC, vinyl frames are affordable and easy to maintain. They resist moisture and don’t require painting, making them a top pick for many homeowners.
View our list of Top Vinyl Windows.
Pros
- Low-maintenance
- Cost-effective
- Last 20+ years
- Good insulation
Cons
- Less natural or classic looking than wood
- May discolor or warp
- Sensitive to extreme heat
Wood Window Frames
Wood frames offer a warm, traditional look. They’re excellent insulators but require regular upkeep to avoid rot and pest damage.
Pros
- Classic, beautiful appearance
- May last over 50 years with proper maintenance
- Energy-efficient and eco-friendly
- Paintable and stainable
Cons
- High price point
- More prone to pest damage
- More susceptible to warping and rot
- High maintenance costs such as refinishing (which homeowners should do every five to 10 years)
Aluminum Window Frames
Lightweight and strong, aluminum frames suit large windows and modern designs. They’re easy to customize but fall short in energy efficiency.
Pros
- Last 40 to 50 years with proper maintenance
- Sturdy and weather-resistant
- Low-maintenance option
- Typically use at least 15% recycled materials
Cons
- Not energy-efficient because they conduct heat
- Prone to condensation and corrosion
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Fiberglass Window Frames
Fiberglass frames are durable, energy-efficient, and ideal for extreme climates. They won’t expand, contract, or warp like other materials. This makes them ideal components for heavy-duty hurricane windows.
Pros
- Cold- and heat-resistant
- Waterproof
- Noise-resistant
- Low-maintenance option
- Energy-efficient
Cons
- Higher price point
- Susceptible to UV damage
- More challenging to install
- Fewer customization options
Wood-Clad Window Frames
These hybrid frames give you a wood interior with a weather-resistant exterior, combining style and durability.
Pros
- Almost maintenance-free
- Recyclable
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Energy-efficient
- Customizable
- Long Lifespan
Cons
- Higher cost than some alternatives
- Potential for moisture issues if improperly installed
- Interior wood still needs some maintenance
Looking for more details on prices? Read our cost guide on wood replacement windows.
Composite Window Frames
Made from a blend of wood fibers and polymers, composite frames mimic wood but resist rot, warping, and weathering. They’re long-lasting and excellent insulators, which may lower your energy bills over time.
Pros
- Seamless look
- Eco-friendly
- Great insulator
- Mimics the look of wood but requires less maintenance
- Rot-resistant
- Low maintenance
Cons
- Expensive
- Quality varies by manufacturer
Steel Window Frames
Steel frames are built for strength and security. They’re a favorite for modern architecture but come at a premium price.
Pros
- Fire-resistant and secure
- Highly durable
- Sleek, modern look
- Recyclable
- Energy-efficient
- Lasts many decades
Cons
- Costly compared to alternatives
- More susceptible to corrosion
- Difficult to cut, making customization more challenging
- Heavy
How Can You Select the Right Window Frame For Your Home?
When picking a window frame, consider:
- Climate: Fiberglass, vinyl, and wood-clad are great for extreme temperatures.
- Energy Efficiency: Vinyl and fiberglass offer excellent insulation.
- Maintenance: Composite, vinyl, and fiberglass need the least upkeep.
- Aesthetics: Wood and wood-clad offer a timeless look.
- Budget: Vinyl is the most affordable; steel and composite are the most expensive.
Measuring for Replacement Frames
To measure:
- Measure the width of the window opening at the top, middle, and bottom.
- Measure the height at the left, center, and right.
- Use the smallest measurements for width and height.
This ensures a proper fit and more accurate quote.
Are Full Frame Window Replacements Worth It?
Yes—full replacements improve energy efficiency, reduce drafts, and boost home value. You can save up to 15% on energy bills, making it a smart long-term investment. To collect further cost information, look at your favorite window frame options at reputable companies like Champion, Renewal by Andersen, and Window World.
Ready to buy your new window frames? Get a free estimate from one of the industry’s best window providers below.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
FAQs About Different Types of Window Frames
Fiberglass is ideal. It’s heat-resistant and won’t warp. Vinyl and wood-clad are also solid choices.
Vinyl, fiberglass, and wood-clad handle cold and moisture well. Avoid untreated wood.
Vinyl—it’s affordable, durable, and widely available.
Choose the right material for your climate and clean regularly. Inspect for caulking issues or leaks yearly.
